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FANUC Controller
Spindle · Intermediate · 5-30 minutes
Fanuc 516 - Spindle orientation error
The 516 alarm occurs when the spindle fails to reach the commanded orientation position within the allowed time or position tolerance. This is typically caused by a faulty spindle orientation sensor (magnetic sensor or encoder), mechanical binding preventing proper orientation, or incorrect parameter settings for orientation timeout and position check.
516
Fanuc 516 - Spindle orientation error
SPINDLE ORIENTATION ERROR
Fanuc spindle alarm 516: SPINDLE ORIENTATION ERROR. The spindle drive or spindle motor has detected a fault condition that requires diagnosis before spindle operation can resume.
Root Cause Summary
The 516 alarm occurs when the spindle fails to reach the commanded orientation position within the allowed time or position tolerance. This is typically caused by a faulty spindle orientation sensor (magnetic sensor or encoder), mechanical binding preventing proper orientation, or incorrect parameter settings for orientation timeout and position check.
Safety
- Verify corrected program or parameters before resuming machining
Causes and Fixes
- 1
Check the orientation sensor (magnetic pickup or proximity sensor) mounting position and air gap - should be 0.5-1.0mm from target.
- 2
Inspect the sensor cable for damage, loose connections at both sensor and amplifier ends. Check for oil contamination on connectors.
- 3
Monitor spindle encoder feedback on the amplifier diagnostic screen during manual orientation attempt to verify position counts are changing smoothly.
Ensure spindle is in MANUAL mode before testing
- 4
Replace orientation sensor if damaged or test with known good spare. Verify sensor output voltage (typically 5-24VDC depending on type) with multimeter during rotation.
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